Security Chief of Rio Olympic Games Resigns

The world is going through some turbulent times, more specifically with the Rio Games and threats being made toward those planning to attend. So I ask you, are you visiting the Olympic Games this summer? Have you planned accordingly with contingencies in place? Finally, are you keeping yourself abreast with current situations surrounding your trip with up-to-date intelligence reports?

Colonel Moreira, Chief of the Security Forces for this event, has resigned amongst political scandal within the country.

Colonel Moreira was in charge of about 9,600 officers out of the thousands of police, soldiers and security personnel earmarked for Rio’s Games. Reportedly, the Colonel has spoken against the Rousseff government, claiming that he was embarrassed to be working for what he called unscrupulous government leadership.

Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff has a reported 68% of her people calling for her impeachment over allegations of corruption. With an estimated 3.5 million people taking part in protesting the current government, on March 13, 2016, it not hard to believe that 68% of the population are asking for impeachment.

But even with the political unrest rates at a midlevel threat position there is still greater concern involving cybersecurity threats. A well-known cyber group known as “Anonymous” has launched its campaign in protest of the social injustice they believe surrounds the Olympics. Anonymous has targeted previous events in this country during the 2014 World Cup against not only the Brazilian government, but sponsors such as Coca-Cola and Adidas.

Seek guidance whenever possible before traveling to this or other major world events before you arrive. More often than not, travelers allow themselves to enter the situation without having a plan in place to mitigate or avoid threats all together. In either case, always be aware of your situation and your surroundings to keep yourself out of trouble.

Bill Peeler, Founder and CEO of Peeler Group International

Peeler Group International is a provider of Risk Assessments, Personal Protection Personnel and Security Drivers.